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Doors Open Days

September 2016

Ever wondered what goes on behind the closed door of an interesting building?
Now is your chance to go behind-the-scenes of some of the most intriguing
buildings in Scotland. In the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design 2016,
the annual Doors Open Days gives you the access to some of the finest
architectural gems in Scotland which are ordinarily closed to the public.

Organised by the Scottish Civic Trust, this month-long festival sees
hundreds of museums, historic landmarks, and other noteworthy buildings
open their doors on Saturdays and Sundays throughout September. There is
also a choice of expert tours, guided walks, exhibitions and other
activities, all completely free.

To avoid disappoint, advance booking is recommended for many of the
guided tours.

3 – 4 September

Auchinleck House, East Ayrshire, is a restored mansion house
dating back to the 13th century, with ruins of a castle and the
Old House still standing within the estate.

Dundonald Castle, South Ayshire is a grand 14th century
fortified tower house which boasts many fascinating features
which include the upper hall and a gloomy prison. It was built
for Robert II, founder of the Stewart Dynasty.

The majestic House of Dun overlooks the Montrose Basin and
was built by the Erskine family. A jewel in the crown of the
National Trust’s properties, this is a rare chance to get
inside.

The University of St Andrews is Scotland’s first university
and comprises several impressive academic buildings including
the Parliament Hall, Senate Room and the King James Library.

Paisley Abbey astounds with its ornate interior which
features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate
stonework.

10 – 11 September

The restored village of New Lanark is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site which stands testament to the cotton mill village
which existed here in the 18th century.

Wemyss Bay Station in Inverclyde was designed by James
Miller in 1903 for the Caledonian Railway. This weekend it will
showcase an exhibition of photographs, drawings and archival
material relating to the construction and history of the
station.

The Waterfront Cinema at Greenock is a local, independent
cinema where you can catch all the latest films. Take a peek at
the projection room.

17 -18 September

Take a tour of the Glasgow’s Citizen’s Theatre and hear the
history of its Gorbals home.

Step back in time at the Auld Post Office Museum in Turriff
which will have thousands of age-old artefacts, photos,
furniture and books.

Pretend to be a lady or gentleman of leisure at Bowhill
House in Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, an A-listed building
and one of the splendid residences of the 10th Duke of Buccleuch.

24 – 25 September

Discover Leith’s seafaring heritage at the Custom House, an
impressive building once used to oversee the payment of duty for
importing and exporting goods through the Port of Leith.

Edinburgh Printmakers on Union Street was originally a
washhouse for the local community. It’s now one of the city’s
busiest print studios.

Fortingall, Perthshire, is famed for its ancient Yew Tree,
which has stood in the Forkingall Kirkyard for centuries. There
is a walking tour starting from here on Sunday 25.

The Fergusson Gallery in Perth is dedicated to the artwork
of JD Morris and his lifelong partner Margaret Morris. Join a
special tour of the art store.

The Mull of Galloway Lighthouse is located at what is
considered Scotland’s most southerly point. Climb up the 115
steps to the light room at the top.

This is just a small selection of the remarkable places opening their
doors across Scotland, with events taking place during the whole month
of September. Please always check the Doors Open Days website for
further details and always check dates before you visit.

Take a look at the VisitScotland blog for news and travel inspiration and join our brand-new Scotland’s Community. It’s brilliant online forum where members can share their stories and ask advice about visiting and exploring Scotland. We can’t wait to see you there.